Violence: 0/5
Drug Abuse: 0/5
Nudity: 2/5
Language: 3/5
Sexual Content: 5/5
Nudity: Related to the sexual content and her chest is shown when her clothes are being ripped by the paramedics nothing wild thankfully. Language: Towards the end of the book the swear words increase but it isn't overly used rather I believe it serves it's purpose well. Sexual Content: Intercourse does occur you have to skip two pages towards the end so that you are not scarred for life.
Summary
Death can upon us at any moment and Mia was not expecting Death to make a change in her life. With no memory of the accident she pieces together the people and their conversations to find the things she lost and needs.
She is in a state of ghost form watching her body being wheeled away from the accident and the surgeries her body goes through. The most heart wrenching is the family that comes to visit her as they talk to her unconscious body about their love for her, what is going on and if they think she should keep fighting to stay with them here on Earth.
Review
I love this book minus the two unneeded pages with intercourse I enjoyed the entirety of it. I was worried this would be depressing because it talks about death and normally they are. Yes you will tear up and want to cry because it hurts what Mia has and will go through.
The power of love and family is what buoy's this book up above the rest. It is raw and has left a mark on my imagination about death and unconscious people. What is it that we are willing to endure for love? How will we face life when we feel like it is ripping us away from those we need the most at that time?
I read this in a day. It's a short read but I hope you have to sit there for a moment to let it sink in and not slip from your mind so quickly as I did. It's an emotional roller coaster but I enjoyed every moment. This is for ages 14 and up with skipping those two pages for sure. I will be adding this to my library hopefully. :D If I Stay. (click hotline to purchase from Amazon) I also was not aware until recently they were making a movie out of it. Sadly, I've heard bad reviews.
I am also grateful for the gospel I belong to because I know that death like birth is a way of passage to the next part of our existence and that families are bound together forever in the temple.
Violence: 3/5
Drug Abuse:0/5
Language: 0/5
Nudity: 1/5
Sexual Content: 0/5
Violence: There is a lot of death's and battles with animals and soldiers. Nudity: Aron accidentally runs to Dari naked and quickly covers himself and returns to his dorms mortified.
Summary
Aron was dreading the Harvest time afraid that they would take him or one of his siblings to Stone's where they train assassins. It was shameful for be a part of that group and his family was a hard working respectable family on the Watchline.
Little did he know that he would have to work side by side with the Stone Masters that kidnapped him from his family as creatures and people pose a threat along their journey to the Stone Truine. Across the land a prince is mocked and jeered at by his people. However his family is slowly poisoned to death one by one. As he watches his closest sister pass to the other side he is pushed from the top of the tower and he break's every bone in his body but still lives.
Review
I liked this story. I wouldn't say it's the absolute BEST story I've read but I think for it's audience it did well. I would say this is for ages 10-14 just because of the simple vocabulary. There are more characters that come along the way besides the prince and Aron but there is a lot of action and getting to know the characters.
I looked forward to reading this and of course I might check out the sequel. There isn't any swear words which I really liked or anything romantic besides crushes. Click the hot link if you are interested in buying it Oathbreaker. It's only 1 cent in paperback! :D
Violence: She attempts and sometimes wounds Dobbs and herself. Children are killed.
Sexual Content: She is raped repeatedly.
Summary
Blythe was kidnapped at the city festival by a survivalist who locked her away in a silo at Eudora, Kansas. In the beginning she tries every method possible to fight and find her way out hoping for freedom and counting on others to find her. However as the silence encloses around her below ground she realizes that no one is coming and that she wants to live. Her kidnapper tries to convince her that the world is coming to an end and that he is doing her a favor since they will emerge just as Adam and Eve after the world has been changed.
At times she wants to give up when the loneliness engulfs her but nothing prepares her for raising a child in a confined space. Desiring the happiest moments for her child she adopts the kidnapper's story that the world has been destroyed and that it's no longer safe to be outside. An event years later grant Blythe the choice of denying all her son knows as the truth or sticking to her story and survival.
Review
This story is dark and hard to read. Not that it's boring or anything but Blythe doesn't seem like a real teenager to me and it goes through some gross stuff. I kept imagining her as older rather than sixteen. Her personal thoughts and behavior just didn't fit well with the age in my book. The story is interesting but it really flopped halfway through when they finally get above ground.
Also, at times she tries to paint her kidnapper as not such a bad guy but he was a slime ball! I didn't really care for it because I didn't finish it. Don't ask me to because I'm not going to. The first half was intriguing but when they get above ground it just died. I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone. Like I said it is dark because she is raped repeatedly, attempts suicide and children die.
Violence: 3/5
Drug Abuse: 0/5
Nudity: 1/5
Language: 0/5
Sexual Content: 1/5
Violence: There is war and so there are descriptions of brutal deaths. Nudity: Taniquel suffers from hypothermia and the person saving her strips down to lend his body heat but there isn't any sexual description about it rather just that he climbed in to keep her warm. Sexual Content: There is the explanation that in the Tower laran users are a little more exploratory with sex such as two friends have sex but it doesn't explain it in sexual terms but that it happened. Also Aran a sub character admits his love for another male on accident.
Summary
Coryn is the son of a King with many siblings. Thankfully he is a middle child and doesn't have to worry about taking over the kingdom unlike his older brother Eddard. His father seeks an alliance with another kingdom and they desire to have one of his daughters that is the strongest in laran. Laran is the psychic and magical power used to control, build weapons, and create peace. Each person's laran can also have unique abilities from animal communication, telepathy, and various others.
While Rumail a seeker of laran tests the daughters they test Coryn as well and he tells his father that Coryn needs to train in the tower so that he can better tame his laran and that the physical sickness it causes can be curbed in that environment.
After a few chapters we meet Taniquel who is a strong spirited woman that endures a lot of hardship. Her life is forever changed when Damian conquers her kingdom through illegal uses of laran leaving her husbands dead body at the castle gates. Damian is old and seeks to marry his son to Taniquel but she plots a different ending for her once kingdom.
Review
I wasn't very sure about this story because it explained a lot of background for Coryn such as his family who they are and what their relationships are like. But it does play an important role later on in the book so I wasn't bitter about it.
Once Coryn leaves for the Tower everything begins to churn really fast. What I really like was that the relationship between Coryn and Taniquel isn't mooshy gooshy or cliche. They rescue each other multiple times when they are trapped or in desperate standing. For the most part both of them are pretty level headed knowing they have obligations to other people because of their role in society.
There isn't a whole lot of background with the introduction of Taniquel it just starts off and you learn as you go. She is just one of those people that loves the honest truth and refuses to surrender in any situation though it might seem like she is. Kind of like Captain Kirk from Star Trek but prettier.
What I really liked was that it was a clean book overall and it threw curveballs. I really liked the creation of Laran as well that they could enter a psychic world and battle there. Check it out if you want some adventure, pain, friends, and war.
This is the new addition to our family! :D I got a second one because the price was AWESOME to say the least. The directions were horrible and against the instructions I used power tools. I have no regrets. We haven't busted out the second new bookcase I bought though Justin thought I would have to.
This one is my trusty steed. I have had this bookcase from my earliest memories. It's way old but I have outgrown it. I can't wait to get more books! I mean I don't have a third bookcase for nothing. ;) They were on sale at my local WalMart if anyone else wanted a steal. :D
There is a link to the website if you have further questions about this topic or research. I saw this book on Dr. Laura's Facebook page and I wanted to take a closer look at it.
Summary
There are so many factors into the type of boys and men we have today. He also lightly touches on girls and women but not as much since he focused on males and he has no daughters so that was why boys were his foremost interest.
The factors that can play a heavy influence: Video Games (duh because they are way more awesome today than before.), Teaching Methods (What?), Prescription Drugs (Saw that one coming.), Endocrine Disruptors (Say what?), Devaluation of Masculinity (Good point).
I totally expected the video games and drugs but I have not previously considered the devaluation of masculinity or knew what endocrine disruptors. I was always viewed as somewhat radical during my education studies with my peers because I always stuck up for separate education.
Dr. Sax tackles these topics with a chapter for each one and goes in detail about the aspects, variables, and background for each.
Review
I really enjoyed this read though at times I was stressed out because I realized how toxic our culture is right now for our sons and daughters. I have no children otherwise I would have been tossing plastic water bottles, crunching their times on video games, checking they had good role models, and interrogating their teachers.
Luckily I was spared the impulsive rampage because we only have a cat. Fwef! But I am still concerned and I feel like my opinions haven't changed drastically but I have more knowledge about the topics and can better explain why I feel the way I do about each topic.
This book does not contain the one answer as to what is going on. Because each child is so original we can't plug in a formula and get the solution. Kids are not math problems. Thank goodness because I am dreadful at those too. Anyways, if you want to open your mind a bit about our culture and why so many kids are different than before.
Please read this even if you have a daughter I believe it is not the exact same problems but that way she can help and support those around her who suffer from the negative influences we are passing today. It is explained simply and he clarifies some confusing parts of the research that is presented in the book. He is also funny and cracks a few jokes along the way.
This is great for those who prefer a more educational read. Or if you want a break from fantasy like I did. But don't worry I've got some books in the works still.
You know what happened? I am simultaneously reading the Clockwork Series while reading "Boys Adrift". And I haven't finished my assigned reading yet. I am sorry. I will have something for sure next week. My husband is astounded because I constantly have my nose in a book and he is wondering how it happened that I haven't finished it yet.
Truth be told I find it really interesting and so I am taking it slow. There are some things I agree and disagree with that is in the book and so I really like it because I try to see what my reasoning is behind the arguments. Anyways, you will have to wait until next week for the review on it. Sorry! :(
If you have any suggestions don't hesitate to comment below.
This author is usually one I can count for a wonderful adventure. If you want to see what he's written this is his blog. It's actually pretty interesting compared to other author blogs that I have seen.
Anyways back to the point:
Violence: 4/5
Drug Abuse: 0/5
Nudity: 0/5
Language: 1/5
Sexual Content: 3/5
Violence: They are thieves and to say they were not killing people would barely make them awesome. People are killed in gruesome manners at times and they fight all the time.
Language: What I adore about Michael Sullivan is that he is normally very witty. However it is inevitable to have a type of swear word in your language so it is used a few times.
Sexual Content: There is no specific explanations but hints. One of the characters is a whore and it would be difficult to explain some of the hardships she and other whores endure without a few comments.
Summary
If you haven't met Hadrian and Royce you should. Complete opposite's are forced into a contract for a Professor, Arcadius, they are indebted to in Sheridan. Hadrian worn out from the soldier blood saturated life returns to Sheridan to retrieve the items Arcadius is holding for him from his father's death. Along the way his travels couldn't be normal or any kind of peace. Rather, he ends up trying to suppress mutiny among the barge and upon arrival is the only survivor. Rushing to the authorities they find no evidence of his claims and nearly arrest him for causing a public disturbance.
Lovely Royce. Orphaned at a young age he grew up learning thieving and killing with the Wolves. He is small framed but his agility, and deftness with daggers makes him a bigger opponent then first conceived. He is hired to escort Hadrian to Sheridan and does it his way. At a distance he observes Royce and steps in when Hadrian's life is in danger but all Hadrian see's is a man with death in his eyes under a black hood.
These two are hired by Arcadius to steal a book from the Crown Tower. Sounds simple but their differences seem like ravines that can't meet. With only a few days to achieve the feet they push each other to the limits and attempt to break the contract with Arcadius so they can be rid of each other.
Review
Loved it. I read it in three days. I adore Royce and Hadrian though more of Royce. I also enjoy that not all the events could have been predicted especially about Pickles (can't give it away!) Hadrian's side kick he meets in Vernes. I felt like Royce was really broken down in this book which I was surprised with how he was puzzled by Hadrian and couldn't stand him.
I think Michael Sullivan did well of starting the friendship between two people who are very opposite. It's quite a rare friendship that occurs and I like how they made fun of each other and tried to kill each other but slowly began to realize the benefit of the other.
It wasn't rushed or simply slapped together. There was a lot of thought put into this union and I was grateful for the craftsmanship he showed for their friendship. Check it out if you are looking for adventure and pretty clean fun. I just adore this pair more than Jem and William from the clockwork series. Hadrian and Royce are so well made they feel real.
Violence: 4/5
Nudity: 0/5
Drug Abuse: 1/5
Language: 0/5
Sexual Content: 1/5
Violence: There are descriptions of beatings, suicide attempts and successes, and grotesque deaths.
Drug Abuse: Two people consume rat poison.
Sexual content: There are references to some women selling themselves for money but no descriptions.
Summary
It's a dog eat dog world in Annawadi and one wrong move could prove to be your undoing of success. This story focuses on a makeshift village near the Mumbai air port, but as India continues to prosper the government wants to put hotels, water parks or a resort where they are settled.
Asha is seen as the leader of Annawadi though many dislike her ways of business. Loans are available to the poor but she keeps most of the information from the villagers and uses it for her own climb up the social ladder. To secure the money will continue she creates a sham that there is a school in Annawadi and that many kids attend. However, reality is that Manju her daughter who attends college teaches a few children in their living room. Maju dreams of escaping her mothers terrible reputation and ascending out of Annawadi but her mother has other plans.
A low but at times successful trade is the garbage sorters. Among them is Abdul who is largely built and works endlessly from sun up to sun down to help put food on the table. While he was replacing a wall in their shack their neighbor accuses them of tearing apart her shack. An argument ensues between the families and an economic battle begins. The tragedies in Annawadi address the problems of money, sex, power, and manipulation.
Review
This was one of the required reading for last month of Nerdfighter reading list on Goodreads. It takes a while for me to get the books since I rent them from the library so I am a month behind. I like the way it is written. At times it is hard to know when the perspective changes and keeping track of everyone at first but after the first chapter it's not very difficult as you become accustomed to the characters/people.
I say people because these are true tragedies. It wasn't dark, or mopey but the writer at times could be funny and witty which I really enjoyed. What I felt was very important is that the writer explains how it is in the area at least it felt raw to myself while reading.
I won't say that it's a thriller, mystery or of anything like that. It's like reading a documentary which I enjoy and if you don't like documentaries then don't worry about this. What this book was successful at with myself was reminding me how blessed I am for the lifestyle I can lead. I can't imagine what it's like to sleep on the dirt floor and wishing for years to own some tile. Or how lost I could become believing that my future was a failure already and wanted to end it.
I think Abdul and Manju were the only two that I really liked in the book. I would give it a 3/5. It was good and I would recommend it if I knew someone was into this sort of genre but not running around trying to convert people.
You will have to forgive me for the lack of posts. I thought it was automatically updating but it seemed to not work. :( Hopefully we don't have a drought again. :D
Craig finds himself in the adult psychiatric ward at the hospital only two blocks from his house. How did he get there? Well, he achieved his dream of getting into Pre-Professional High School and suffered because he felt like he couldn't perform the way he wanted.
Already suffering from depression the pressure from school and his social awkwardness pushes him to call the suicide hotline.Smart kid! I can't say I ever did that but I believe he is braver than he gives himself credit for.
In this ward he meets some very interesting and loveable people. Well I loved them because they were so unique I just couldn't resist. The guy who is afraid of gravity is one of my favorites. His roommate is Egyptian and has lost all interest in life. Craig by law doesn't belong in the adult ward but the rooms for teenagers is being remodeled.
Here he discovers what is socially accepted and what isn't. It is a hilarious adventure. Sad to say the author committed suicide after writing a few great books like this. His influence is still felt today even though he isn't here physically.
Drug Use: 2/5
Sexual Content: 4/5
Language: 1/5
Nudity: 0/5
Warning: Sexual topics discussed and personal desire explained.
I actually prefer this cover of the book over the other version.
Sex: 4*
Drugs: 0
Violence: 3
Nudity: 0
*There is a few kisses, make out scene and at the end they interlope without description thank heavens but you know it happened.
Summary
In the war obsessed Republic Day's family is located in one of the sectors. Regularly because of poverty a plague sweeps through and his youngest brother is stricken with it. No matter how hard Day works he can't earn enough to pay for the medicine so he breaks into the hospital to take it.
June's brother was murdered at the hospital break in and vows to kill the boy who did it, Day. She is a military prodigy and gives Day a run for his money in a cat and mouse game. There is a reward for Day's head and she plans to collect it. Blinded by revenge June misses clues in the beginning of her investigation for Day that she might be hunting the wrong person. Day tries to prove his innocence to June but it's up to her whether to let him live or die.
Feedback
This is her first series and it's a lot better her first time in the ring compared to other authors. I liked it, it was engaging but the font was a huge obstacle for myself to overcome. See below for example of text:
This is Day's font:
This is June's font:
It isn't June's font that bothers me. It is Day's and I feel like he takes up more of the book. I got over the color quickly though I can't say I would use a different font color for style. It's like Cambria and doesn't flow well. I cursed the font the whole time. I will not continue reading the series because of it. Call me ridiculous I don't care I simply can't get over it. (Snob nose showing.)
I did like the characters a lot but it was predictable which is common. I really like Day a lot I feel like he is a great person despite everything he has gone through. It would be so easy for him to be bitter and hateful but he isn't. June I didn't like at first but once she lived the rough life for a bit I liked her more because she shed the spoiled brat attitude.
I would recommend this to anyone who love dystopia style stories. Because of the styling issue I think that is the only thing holding me back from owning it. But try it out and hopefully the style won't bother you. :D
Where have you been!
Great question. We moved across the states for my husbands job and with packing I forgot to blog. But I have been reading this whole time. :D Once we go into our apartment we didn't have internet for TWO weeks. Yeah. Very horrible experience. So I haven't had internet in a long time and so that is where I have been.
Heroes don't exist because those who were given powers, Epics, are all evil or turn evil.
David is ruled by Steelheart a ruthless Epic that seems invincible. But David knows the secret to Steelheart's death; he just needs to unlock his mind to find it. A century has passed since Steelheart's takeover and no one lifts a finger in defiance. No one except the Reckoner's who pick off Epic's to feed hope into others and show that they are not so invincible.
David one day faces the decision to try out for the Reckoners or live under Steelhearts rule. The only thing is that the Reckoners are not recruiting and he could die just as easily trying out for them as running at Steelheart with a knife.
Follow David as he strives to unravel's Steelheart's rule and oppression.
Review
Nudity 0/5
Sexual Content 1/5
Language 0/5
Drug Usage 0/5
Violence 2/5
Sexual Content: He is highly attracted to a girl and is bewildered by her good looks while she rips off the bottom of her dress during a fight (she is wearing pants underneath; it was meant to come off). He thanks her for the strip show later on. (There was no actual strip show.)
I really liked this book. It took me a while to warm up to David and it 'seemed' cliche of a story at first but I really like how unique Sanderson made it feel of the people becoming Epics.
It was action packed and gruesome at times with violence. (I should add that into my ratings. People will die you have to accept that with Sanderson. He is mild depending on his audience with who and how many die but they still do.
I also really enjoyed how funny the characters were and seemed very unique in manners, habits, and backgrounds. There are a few twists that you can predict due to foreshadowing but I was really caught off guard by Prof who takes in David. (You have to read to find out)
I also liked how it ended. It wasn't some happy go lucky story but rather David was honestly torn on how his actions would affect others around him and what it could do. This is a great action book for ages 10 and up.
"Sometimes you have to help the heroes along."-David's dad.
*And David fulfilled his fathers wishes in every possible way. Check out the book trailer below!
Once again! Travel through time and save people's lives as they pull and push against each other's lives. This intricate plot has steampunk, fantasy, and the Victorian Era mixed together. I did not finish this book and so this review will also be one sided and insufficient for the whole story.
Nudity 0/5
Sexual Content 4/5
Language 0/5
Drug Usage 0/5
It had a great opening because the was going to commit suicide and I do not mean that lightly in any manner but I always find it intriguing. I'm a sick person so if it doesn't make sense don't worry that means your normal. Turns out this guy falls in love with a whore and when he finally meets her he buys her a drink and she offers him 'pleasures'. I didn't think he would do it because I mean dude you just met her and if you care for her the way you are trying to tell the reader you wouldn't do that.
Wrong! That was like 30 pages into I think. I was mad. I returned it 6 hours after checking it out from the library because I packed all my books! We are moving and yes I have a kindle but its just not the same.
I'm the crazy that believes there is magic in turning pages and beneficial learning about society, people, relationships, adventure, suffering etc. that we can experience through the characters so that we don't suffer as much in real life. Woah, talk about tangent. Sorry.
Yeah totally not worth my personal time but if that floats your boat get on board and enjoy.
Claimed as a new classic to add to our 'must read' list that never ends. I checked it out excited to read about Patrick Bateman who lives a double life and has psychological issues that are influenced by our violent world we now live in.
Nudity 1/5
Sexual Content 4/5
Language 2/5
Drug Usage 1/5
I didn't finish the book. So this might not be such an accurate or well representation of the book as a whole so please forgive me if I seem one sided. Also, upon more research there was more to this story than just that. I had assumed he was a psychopath killer but it involved more than that.
I did not like Patrick in any way and that is not always a surprise for me since some characters grow on me and others I just criticize the whole time. He was a pompous rake. He attended a party where there was drinking, suggested drug use, and discovered that his girlie and best friend were having an affair. Then I was blindsided by masturbation. Like what the heck! He had just returned home then bang! I almost puked I was so horrified by what I just read.
I closed the book at that point. I bet its only added in there because any kind of sex sells in this society and what a FANTASTIC opener. B.S! Grr! All I wanted to do was read about a murderer but alas I was scarred for life instead and ran it back to the library.
I will also pay more attention to the books I add to my 'must read' section because some reviews and summaries mention the level of sexuality I was ignorant of until now. Sorry this one was a bust I hope you enjoy the spring weather. :D I am.
-J Feistner
I guess they made a movie if it excluded all the sex I might watch it. . . ? Maybe.
We all know I love books. And I realized while talking to someone the other day that I can give you ratings and tell you how much I adored this book. But everyone's level of morality is different even among best friends. Now I am going to do my best to be specific about the contents in the books with ratings and examples for why they received that rating.
Nudity
Sexual Content
Language
Drug Use
If there are other concerns or questions you would like me to address in the ratings please comment below so that I can add them in. I want people to be able to rely on my information and I can't do that if I don't know what you want. I hope we continue to have a good time together and if you want you can submit books in the comments for me to check out for you and rate.
*She vaguely explains how she was molested as a child in the foster system. It doesn't give specifics but its there. She also kisses another character at the end of the book.
^ A character has his shirt off and she explains why she thinks he is highly attractive.
Overall 4/5. Getting onto my 5/5 star range is tough. This was very close though. :)
Plot Summary
Mrs. Jane Doe was my mother's name and mine is Della Doe. It's Doe because I don't know who she was and no one really cared to find me while I treaded through the foster system. It wasn't until a fresh social worker threw a file of investigative work on my mother did I know my real last name. "Deare", in consequence I stuck with Della Doe Deare.
At eighteen I owned a house, a few bonds, and some cash. The only thing was that I had never been to North Carolina and wasn't too bent on meeting the people that turned down the offer to take me in a few times. Tough love.
How can I move forward without looking back? Well I couldn't so I moved to North Carolina to discover hidden secrets, my mothers forbidden love, and a little sunshine. Of course where there is a coast there is a hot guy who surfs and his name is Dove. He helps me fix up the house I own and keeps guard over me while the family swarms around.
This family has some unique secrets but I have never had one so maybe they are not so unique. But imagine the feeling of a warm tingling on your skin as you soak up the water and shape it into things. It's called "Gathering".
This book took my preconceived notions and knocked them out of the park. I totally loved it. I am still mad I finished it because I didn't want it to end. Mad: mentally ill / insane. Never mind, highly peeved. Peeved: annoy/ irritated.
Did I like this book? Heck yes! I like Della because she is independent without the "I'm Bad A so Watch out Attitude". I downloaded this for free off Amazon a few months ago to give it a try and I was surprised by the quality for being in the free book section. (It is no longer free sadly.)
The characters are pretty funny, clever, corny, and downright honest with each other. It was also a fast read. I read it in two days. It was good quality writing with only one misspelling I caught; for a free book that is awesome. :D
I read Regan's blog and I hear a bit of Della in her voice. Maybe that's what its like to talk to an author is to hear all the character voices in them. Quite peculiar but nice. Check it out. Definitely appropriate for those even aged 12 and up I would say.
I have 'learned' grammar in the public school system and while studying for my English degree. But never before has it been funny, clever, and entertaining.
What I adore about this book is that it keeps the lessons short and simple. Also, many misunderstand that in the very beginning Lynne states that it is mostly UK based grammar with some American style as well.
For us crazy Americans we have to check our own rules while reading about hers but I have learned a lot.
If you struggle or want a reminder about grammar rules pick this hilarious book up. And, if you are snobbishly saying to yourself that you don't need reminders well pick it up anyways for entertainment purposes. :D
I read this book in two days. It is initially a short read but it was invigorating. :)
I want you to meet my gentle friend Don. Now, had I not experienced very logical minded people before I would not have understood him so well as I did reading his experience. He struggles to feel empathy towards others as a result suffers from always being the weird social one.
Don is a professor who specializes in genetics and lives by rules and sound science. He only has a handful of friends that in my definition are not friends but those are all who he has. Gene is his only friend at work and has an open marriage with Claudia who is a psychologist.
Don has worked hard all his life and decides that he wants a wife. Gene and Claudia help Don write a questionnaire for women o fill out according to his requirements. His ideal mate is non-smoking and drinking. Even though he drinks himself is willing to quite for a spouse.
He see's Gene and Claudia's relationship as a goal to achieve because they seem so happy and work together on a lot of things. Gene uses Don's questionnaire for his own purposes to hook up with women of other nationalities. Claudia is well aware and helps Don pick outfits and change his computer science vocabulary to a more social fitting one.
During his search he meets Rosie. She doesn't have a written hourly schedule or eats the same thing all the time. Instead she has daddy issues and wants to find out who her real father is. Since Don is a geneticist he seeks to help her. When they first meet she says that Gene sent her to see him. Focused completely on his "Wife Project" he asks Rosie on a date and it goes down hill from there very fast.
They end up at his apartment to have dinner and she wants to eat out on the balcony so she starts to move furniture outside and Don is thoroughly panicked thinking she is destroying his apartment in less than ten minutes.
Rosie and Don go through extreme situations to gain DNA of the possible fathers for Rosie. I won't tell all their adventures because you will laugh so much harder than if you knew ahead of time. I love Rosie and Don in their own ways.
This is an adult book because of some topics addressed, swearing, and there is a scene where Rosie is in a towel but its not a sexy steamy part. These things did not bother me but it is up to you to decide to meet my new friend Don who I admire and laughed at so hard. :)
Tessa is a young American who recently grieved the death of her Aunt that she grew up with and writes her brother, Nate, who left to find money in England to better sustain them. He sent some money back and eventually sent for her once their Aunt died.
Upon arrival she is swept up by the Dark Sisters who claim they are colleagues of Nate and torture her continually until she discovers her talent. Once the Dark Sisters find out how to evoke her talent they train her on how to change appearances.
Repeatedly they tell Tessa that unless she cooperates they will kill Nate. All the while suffering this ordeal she fights to escape and find Nate without any luck until Will crashes into her bedroom and she smacks him with a water jug. Eventually they make it out alive. Will takes her back to the Institute and end up helping her find Nate.
Amidst their search they battle a vampire clan of well over 100, burn a mansion down, fight demons, and discover a new breed of beast that has been created. They are neither dead or alive. Tessa fights to find her own identity because she is neither human or warlock.
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Personal Thoughts
Now character wise I like Tessa but I am not sold on Will. They have a hot cold relationship. First of all he is a Shadowhunter and she is her own creation, so that definitely complicates the matter already. Plus, I think Will is a lot more extreme and harsher than Jace ever was in the Mortal Instruments series.
I like Jace but Will seems to be Jace in a negative extreme. Now, I don't hate Will. Sometimes I like him and sometimes I don't.
Jem is simply awesome! He is the contrasting white knight to Will. Sadly, he is addicted to Opium and will not survive for very long. I already know I will ball my eyes out when he dies. Terrible thing. :(
Jessamine is a selfish twit! Thats right you heard me. She is worth much mention here. Anyways the plot is the same but I feel like there are some good ideas that make it creative. Or maybe its a combination of a lot of ideas that mix well? I have heard a lot about Cassandra Clare and plagiarism but I haven't done my research. Maybe when I don't have two jobs I can spare the time. Lol.
I highly recommend this to anyone who loves fantasy. It doesn't have any swear words and its rated PG in my book so I like it a lot. Check it out when you have time!
It's a short essay. Automatically many are turned off by the title because it is 'unseemly'. I was not sure what to expect when reading it either, so I did my best to keep an open mind.
I really like this essay even though there are many points I disagree with. Twain states that Christians or those aligning themselves with truth tend to be blunt and unnecessarily hurt other people's feelings. I use 'tact' . . . well try to at least.
Dictionary.com Tact: adroitness or sensitivity in dealing with other's or difficult issues. i.e. the inspector broke the news to me with tact and consideration.
So What of the Essay: People have forgotten over time how to lie effectively in order to spare others from pain and ourselves.
Now, I do not completely agree with Mark Twain.
Love it!
"An injurious truth has no merit over an injurious lie. Neither should be uttered."
I agree with him on this point. Any injurious statement should not be uttered. But there is a reason why I myself partake of the sacrament on Sunday because I am a sinner. Twain then goes on to explain the differences in the types of lying.
One of the lies that he explains is "the silent lie: You have left it to be inferred that you had no fault to find the matter. "
He then uses an example to show that excluding information or not giving any when some is known is in itself is lying. We think we are innocent when we do this yet we are guilty because we are not being honest or upfront.
Towards the end Twain hinted that if we all lied with a care for other people first we wouldn't have ranks or 'the pestilent truth' as he put it.
If we didn't corrupt so easily as humans this might be possible. Sadly, we are so selfish no matter how we try and repent all our lives we still indulge, hide things, hurt others, and seek power. That is what makes us human!
We are a mixture of good and bad and we decide which one is winning. No other creature on this planet chooses consciously whether it wants to be chaste or villainous to the degree we do.
I really enjoyed this short essay. check it out on your lunch break. There is a lot more that could be discussed but I will leave it at this. :) Great conversation starter too if you don't try to force others to your perspective. :D
P.S. Sorry if my posts seem at random times I am having a hard time finding a few minutes to post between my jobs. (I am blessed to have two part time jobs.)
Worst theives ever! All they had to do was remove a sword that was stashed away for them. However, they couldn't help but be blamed for beheading the King and stealing the prince away to see an ancient wizard while still not achieving the reason for their hire.
Hadrian and Royce are known as Riyria; in elvish it means two. Elves, dwarves, orcs, once wizards, and humans all dwell in the same world but in far different stages of well being.
It opens in a scene where Hadrian and Royce are stopped by some robbers but avoid being robbed and killed because of their reputation as thieves. They are far from being pathetic theives rather they are very devious and cunning. While talking themselves our of being robbed they give pointers to the robbers as they ride away.
Hadrian is the softy of the pair contrary to his gruff and oversized stature. He gets Royce angry at him all the time for taking jobs that are seen as 'good deeds'. Hadrian has the desire to do the right thing and help others out of terrible situations which always complicates the tight situation they are already in during a job.
Royce is my favorite personally. No he isn't smoking hot. He is the exact opposite of Hadrian. If he can get something on someone else' dime he is fine with that. When scouting out areas he blends into the darkness and his small frame is better at squeezing into all crannies available with the silence of a grave as his cloak. He finds other people's pain funny at times and is fair with the money.
These two take a good deed job from Princess Arista to take her brother to a wizard in a Prison across the land only hours after the Kings death. Along the way they find a Monk named Myron who no longer has an Abbey to work in and Royce takes a liking to him.
Swear words? The author makes up his own and I love it! :D There is no inappropriate behavior between characters and the sarcasm is very entertaining. :D I highly recommend this book to those who love fantasy and two thieves who just want to make some money.
There are many war books that have been published but this has been considered a masterpiece. I do not normally read war books but a friend referred it to me and so I picked it up at my local library. Its has five parts to the story which is a good set up and signifier of Frederic Henry's growth as a person over his time in the Italian campaign during World War 1.
Henry's friend Rinaldi introduces him to Catherine whom he seeks just to seduce for a little fun. However, after being hit by a mortar she takes care of him in the hospital in Milan and they become closer together. Once Henry is healed Catherine is three months pregnant and he is called to the front again. They make a plan to stay together despite the war.
When the front was ordered to retreat Henry and a comrade meet the battle police after running from the enemy non stop. Upon arrival all the officers are interrogated and shot because it was their fault that Italy had to retreat. Henry escapes by jumping into the river and hiding his identity. He finds Catherine and they escape in the night on a rowboat to Switzerland.
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This story does not have a happy ending but I liked it so much that I won't give it away. If you are seriously dying to find out what happens to Catherine and Henry you can read it online.
Hemingway cannot be rushed. This is why you didn't have a post to read last week. I have never read a novel by him just small poems and excerpts for classes. He seems very dry and boring. I can't tell you how much I yawned because I lost count. Also, there are swear words such as the F word a lot and some nasty name calling.
Though I did like the story. I feel like it caught a good capture of war and the desperation it can put into people. Many of us do not know what war is like and I am glad I don't but I am grateful for the insight Hemingway gave me. No it's not completely accurate for every person that's been to war but it presented some interesting thoughts.
Such as, at first Henry and Catherine both pretend like they are in love even though they aren't because it makes them feel better. How sad! But it helped them get through their troubles and eventually their pretend love grew into reality.
I cannot say that Hemingway is my favorite but we are 'friends' I will say. I can take him in small doses but never try to party hard at 2 a.m. with. Lol :D
Book Overload!
I get almost all my books from the public library and once in a while I will have more than three books at a time available for pick up at once and I don't want to lose my reservation spot so I end up getting a pile. So much to read! Realistically, now looking at it I won't be able to read the sewing ones which will be fine for now.
Theft of Swords is next! :D If you have any books you would like for me to review make a comment and I will check it out. :D
I was unsure what to read next and didn't have time to stop by the pubic library so I tried to make good use out of the kindle free section.
I always liked the story of King Arthur and wanted to know more about the 'facts' if we can call them that of this heroic figure.
The reviews online were really good and I was grateful the language wasn't too medieval for myself to understand.
Bad news is that I am only 19% into the book and I am bored.
So far to myself as the reader Merlin is the genius behind all Arthur does. It is funny though because Arthur is so young when he retrieves the sword that his own people do not believe he is the "rightwise, king born of all England" (pg. 51). After he gains respect from his own people he faces other kings that feel insulted by paying respects to a boy who has no beard.
There is much blood shed and war scenes that are a bit grotesque with their descriptions of killing.
I didn't expect first person narrative or an action packed story based off a bunch of lore. But I feel like the author made a list of 'facts' gathered about King Arthur and inserted dialogue with a little description of what was going on. Will I finish it? No. I almost didn't review it because I rarely write a bad review.
It is not a dreadful book but a better text book verses a spare time reading book. What I do like is how the headings are specific as to what will happen next and easily move you through the story. I also like that it does focus on a few people at a time but keeps their stories clear to the reader. What I do suggest is keeping your dictionary nearby while reading.
One of the reviewers said that after 40% of the book it starts to pick up and become more interesting but I can't do it. If you can muscle it out be my guest. This would a great read for someone who likes historical books and pays attention to the geography of the land.
I have to be honest. I have mixed feelings about this series but more weighing on the better side. Our world has discovered that people are the problem in society and to rectify it they have chosen to split people into different factions and those factions exhibit certain values that are ingrained into their character. If you grow up in a certain faction and want to leave you are allowed at the age of sixteen to choose where you will go for the rest of your life. And it will always be "Faction before Family"mind you.
They will be listed at seen above in the picture with a little explanation.
Dauntless: Fire for the brave and young. They jump from trains for transportation and do the dangerous jobs no one else wants to do. They are raucous, pierced, thrill seeking people who yearn for nothing but to be brave.
Eurdite: The eye is a window to the soul and they seek to fill themselves with knowledge. They educate and make technological advancements for the society.
Candor: Those who seek to be honest at all times and in all places. They seek to find the truth and make the right decisions continually. They only dress in black and white as a reminder of their commitment.
Abnegation: The holding hands means being selfless and helping others continually. They are required to forget themselves and serve others by running the government and helping the poor.
Amity: The tree represents prosperity and peace. Those in amity are in charge of growing and supplying food to the other factions but only act in ways to create peace among society.
Divergent
Tris is sixteen grew up in the Abnegation faction and loves her family but her personality does not fit well with forgetting who she is and making the sacrifices for others that Abnegation requires. Her brother Caleb is only a little older and they both get to choose together. However she doesn't know until she stands in front of every one that she desires to be brave.
Initiation into the factions is required. Just because you choose a faction does not guarantee you a spot; you have to earn it. Dauntless has the hardest initiation process filled with jumps, boxing, shooting, facing your worst fears in a computerized landscape, and fighting with friends to make the cut after each phase in the process. This who fail the phase are kicked out and must live on the outskirts with the Factionless.
- - -
Can Tris handle it? HECK YES! Tris is realistic with her thinking and gets the snot beaten out of her while trying to adjust from Abnegation to Dauntless. I stayed up until 2 a.m. reading this because I just HAD to know what happened because its one thing after another. Veronica Roth doesn't give you a chance to breath, sleep, or talk to anyone because there is so much going on.
Insurgent
A storm has been brewing between factions during the initiation process and with only a few friends left they discover that the factions are falling apart. Relieved that her and Four can finally be open with their relationship they feel a bit of happiness until the night of the attack. All the Dauntless arrive at Abnegation and she is puzzled at this until they start shooting.
Horrified by whats going on she struggles to figure out whats going on to save the lives of those she knows and loves. Four finds her and they race to the control room to rectify it. However, the enemy interluded by capturing them both and subjecting Tobias to the new serum. When she makes it to the control room Tobias holds a gun to her head believing she is an enemy.
- - -
I greatly dislike this book. It wasn't that there wasn't much going on but there seemed to be more philosophical teachings that became too apparent. Also, Tris turned into a freaking wimp! Argh, I was screaming at her in my head to suck it up. Maybe I am heartless, but I almost didn't finish the series because I was so upset by her behavior and thinking.
Allegiant
Tris is trying to save lives in this war but she knows that the truth is what they need to hear and not the word vomit from their manipulative leaders. She betrays Tobias and works with his father to gain access to the video. The truth is so shocking that Tris is tried as a Traitor under Candor's truth serum. The Candor leader see's a way to keep his faction safe from Jeanine's rule if he trades Tris and other Abnegation & Dauntless members.
From Candor they seek Amity hoping to stir the peaceful people into an active crowd that will protect them and the truth. But the people decide to sanctify their place as neutral ground until Tris brawls with Peter. Tris is in serious pain because she shot her best friends boyfriend and there hasn't been much forgiveness in that department. She continually breaks promises to Tobias and allies with the bureau when he tries to lead another uprising.
- - -
I loved this one as much as the first. I also really like how Tris and Tobias change a lot in the series perspective and personality wise. What I don't like is all the life lesson's talked about in the book. I understand they are important to learn and probably her way of teaching teenagers but I felt there was way too much at times.
Also, putting numbers on the front of the books would be helpful to know which book to start. Its a pet peeve. I ADORE the ending. Finally, someone did something right. I can't give it away. I cried because I was so happy and sad at the same time. I am so grateful for a perfect ending. It has been rumored that people are comparing it to Hunger Games and I like this series more. Its an opinion and you can disagree but I am just saying . . . its stressful, sad, exhilarating, and hilariou all throughout.
By: J Feistner
P.S. Below is the trailer. I can't bear to watch the movie. I don't like who they cast as the characters and my imagination enjoyed the story way too much.
Vampire Diaries, Vampire Academy, Dracula and so on are shows depicting vampires in many different ways.
But what is a vampire really? What are their original abilities? These are some questions I asked myself while watching the ads play onscreen. Plus, Dracula is a classic so why not find my answers and read the original version!
Jonathan Harker is engaged to Mina but has to leave on a business trip to Transylvania. Mina, his fiancé, is accustomed to his business trips that take him to outlandish places and entertains herself by visiting her friend Lucy.
Unbeknownst to Mina her beloved is doing a deal with the devil himself. Dracula seeks to gain knowledge from Jonathan about life in London from mannerisms to how business is done. At first grateful for his hospitality he enjoys their meetings until peculiar habits and occurrences turn up.
"The last I saw of Count Dracula was his kissing his hand to me, with a red light of triumph in his eyes, and with a smile that Judas in hell might be proud of." -pg 56
While shaving himself Dracula steps behind Jonathan but Dracula cannot be seen in the mirror. When Dracula see's that Jonathan is aware of this oddity he seizes the mirror and tosses it out the window. Dracula warns Jonathan of evil wonders that lurk around at night and urge him to stay in his rooms.
Following most people's choice Jonathan wanders around and discovers a lady's quarters and begins imagining ladies sitting around looking beautiful in the moonlight that turns into a terrifying reality.
"There was a deliberate voluptuousness which was both thrilling and repulsive, and as she arched her neck she actually licked her lips like an animal, till I could see in the moonlight the moisture shining on the scarlet lips and on the red tongue as it lapped the white sharp teeth." -pg 43
There are many twists and turns. Some are predictable however not all are and that is what makes it 406 pages long. Many times in the book I thought to myself whatever else could go on in this book? It has to be finished or close to now but the action kept on.
Facts I learned about Vampires:
1. Vulnerable during the day.
2. Can take form of: a bat, wolf, or dog.
3. Cannot enter into a place unless welcomed.
4. Inhibit uncanny strength,
5. Love gold and lavish places/items.
6. Can appear and disappear in the moonlight when it is strong.
7.Control wolves, rain, fog and wind.
8. Induce others to sleep while they feed on their victim.
9. Are transformed into a highly attractive person but remain pale with sharp features and red eyes
Vampires are repulsed by: holy bread, water, crosses, wooden stakes, garlic, and holy signs when written or engraved. The correct way to kill a vampire is to drive a wooden stake through their heart and cut off their head. Only then can they die and be released from being "Undead" as referred to in the book.
I liked this book at times it is hard to read because it is so long but the more I read the better things were developed and interesting. I highly recommend this book to whoever believes they glitter in the sun and cannot die. Check this out if you want to discover the real vampire and tackle a classic at the same time.
Somebody stole the Columbus comic book. So after school I took the whole library down and shoved it in the closet and locked it.
"I told you if you stole from me, I'd take it all back. I'm not a liar"
"Thats not fair," one girl complained. "We didn't all steal the book!"
As a teacher you set aside materials that cost money for the students because you want them to succeed and love learning as much as you do. However, there usually comes a point when the line is crossed and something is destroyed or stolen. This is always shocking even though you've been warned your whole life about other people.
But you can teach the kids a lesson still about society, people, and how to be good. Some people think this book is very fictional and dramatic. Either way I do not care! There is so much truth in this story about teaching and gives great insight to those who call teachers paid babysitters.
People need to know what it's like. Now everyone is different but Esme really did her best to rattle the chains and get things done. I know teachers like this who rattle the cage that detains fun education from students. She said she was dead worn out from the kids at the end of the year and school and I bet it is.
To think that Esme is some rare breed of teacher is wrong! There are so many people out there pushing the limits and reaching past the sky to educate children. The problem is that they don't get recognized for their efforts and the bad is always more magnified than the good. So keep that in mind next time at your parent teacher conference for your kids.
Read this because you will laugh, cry, and shout for joy all at the same time. You love the kids even though you don't know them in real life. I love the journal format because you feel like you are along for the ride the whole time and sets the perfect stage for her thoughts and what happened in the day.
"Deep down in my gut I hate it when someone else does something better than me."
- David Neelman
"I hate to lose! I don't want to hurt people to win. But I want to win."
- Kevin Rollins
These are just a few comments from top Mormon CEO's in our country. Not only are they people but they do their best to have a normal life by shirking from country clubs, personal limousines, staying at expensive hotels, and always giving 10 percent of their earnings to the church.
This book piqued my interest because I am always curious what others think Mormons are since I am one and am constantly proving myths wrong. Yes we do have belly button's like every normal human on this planet and no we do not grow horns even though some days my attitude deserves a pair. ;)
What this book is essentially about are a few families who have climbed the corporate ladder dodging common problems such as financial fiasco's, divorce, adultery and lavish expenditures. Well done! This book follows five CEO's explaining how they volleyed life's hard balls and the influence of how the church was their best asset when faced with tragedy.
The church lets each member govern themselves but requires a strict lifestyle compared to other sects. However avoiding alcohol, spending time with family, and serving others without compensation helped them shine.
What I really loved was that not all the credit went to the CEO's but also their wives and family backgrounds. You understand why one person might calendar everything in while another flex's and releases his duties depending on their duties on hand at the time.
If you are curious about Mormons or looking for good business ethics definitely open this up. It has fantastic tips of how to become a leader and keeping yourself grounded. Everything is easier if your home is a place of love and refuge from the rest of the world.
If normal puberty wasn't hard enough on teenagers Jack discovers that some peculiar incidents are hurting others around him. Saved at birth from a heart doctor she prescribes some medication to keep him going that can't be missed even for a day. One day in a rush he does forget it and starts for feel better, stronger, and more aware of the world. But it lasts only so long until his enemy Lobeck is thrown against the soccer goal post on accident by Jack.
Jack's flippant aunt Linda shows up to take Jack on a weekend trip to do some genealogy brining his two best friends Fitch and Will. genealogy was never so exciting for three teenage boys as they raced a nosey cowboy to a graveyard to dig up a sword and battle a wizard.
Jack's ex ,Leesha, see's Lobeck as the next top dog and leaves Jack until Ellen the new girl at school takes an interest in him. Ice cream soda dumping, soccer cheering, and name calling ensue which confuses Jack as to when his love life ever began.
Not only does he have his own problems but he discovers that he is being hunted by the Red and White Rose wizard groups to battle for them. Jack is a wizard and a warrior but its not revealed until he is dueling Ellen and she cuts his sword arm reducing him to rely on magic for survival. Torn between killing Ellen and protecting his family Jack makes some daring moves.
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I personally really love wizardry. I also like Cinda Williams Chima second series, "The Seven Realms". As I started reading this book I noticed some things I didn't like which I think are just preference. My first is that it's time frame is current. I always love something that in a different time period. Then again that is a preference not a author mistake.
I liked Jack and the plot but it wasn't as well written at her later series and I believe it's because she wasn't done growing as a writer and I hope she keeps at it. I can tell she is building this web and including all these people. At the same time I think there wasn't enough character development from anyone besides Jack and Ellen. Whereas, in her second one a lot of the characters change over time and they are better developed.
I also don't think that the story about Wylie in the beginning needed to be included and if it was kept to be better explained or followed. Wylie is a misunderstood tortured soul. Either way it is a good book but nothing I would go crazy over and I still recommend her second series all the time.
Below is a fan made video. Woohoo! Who doesn't love corny trailers made by teenagers. I did scream though when they did kiss at the end of it. Hahahahaha I was just shocked because I wouldn't have been willing to do that since boys have cooties and all.
